Dying-In LA 2024: We Need to Take Action.
2023 was a grim year for traffic fatalities, and we must let City Hall know we have the political will to continue fighting for safe streets. That means starting the year strong by building our movement through community organizing.
The year that just ended, was a rough year for Los Angeles. Over 330 victims died from traffic violence in the city, marking a 9% increase over 2022 and a 14% increase since 2021. This is the highest number of traffic fatalities in over 20 years. In addition to that disheartening number, there were increases in injuries and fatalities across multiple categories, including:
176 pedestrians killed in 2023 – a 15% increase since 2022 and a 35% increase since 2021.
24 cyclists killed in 2023 – a 20% increase since 2022 and a 41% increase since 2021.
29 people killed in DUI-related car crashes in 2023 – a 32% increase since 2022 and a 38% increase since 2021.
105 people killed in hit-and-run crashes in 2023 – a 30% increase since 2022 and a 38% increase since 2021.
The surge in these statistics can be attributed to various factors, including:
Faster, quieter, and larger vehicles are killing more pedestrians.
There is a sharp increase in the use of alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs (both legal and illegal) while driving.
Distracted driving in various forms – cell phones being one of the largest sources but also an increase in the prevalence of smart “infotainment” systems in cars. (Instead of using tactile touch for basic functions like adjusting the radio station or temperature, drivers often fiddle with screens, diverting their attention from the road.)
A decrease in the enforcement of driving laws for various reasons (worth its own article) results in more people driving recklessly, knowing they are less likely to get caught.
While there is no single solution to all these issues, the fact remains that too many of our elected officials continue to ignore this worsening public health crisis.
Join Streets Are For Everyone, Streets For All, Street Racing Kills, Santa Monica Spoke, and many more to demand that our elected officials prioritize safer streets in 2024. Register here to let us know you will be there along-side us: https://mobilize.us/s/0JnZmq.
Join us for a crucial call to action as we unite in this collective effort. Real change only occurs when we amplify our voices and make them resoundingly heard.
Date: Saturday, 27 Jan 2024
Location: Steps of Los Angeles City Hall
232 N. Spring Street
Set-up Time: 9:30 AM (Coffee will be provided)
Press Conference: 10 AM to 10:45 AM
Volunteers needed: 330 people are required for part of the die-in visual – one for each person who lost their life in 2023. Please feel free to bring bicycles and skateboards. Volunteers are also needed to stand behind the speakers, holding handmade protest signs demanding safer streets. (Dress warm as it will be chilly!)
Parking: You should ride, walk, or take Metro Line B (exit Civic Center/Grand Park Station) to City Hall as parking is limited.